Your Ultimate Guide To Newark Castle, Port Glasgow, Scotland

For my birthday this year, my partner and I embarked on the ultimate castle-hopping adventure, and our very first stop on June 11th was the magnificent Newark Castle in Port Glasgow. If you, like us, are members of Historic Scotland, then it's free entry.

We had to wait a bit when we got there because the staff was on break. It gave us a chance to refuel; we had some snacks. The views over the River Clyde are just stunning, and there's this half-constructed, almost falling-apart bridge nearby with a barricade to keep folks safe—it added a bit of mysterious charm to the whole scene. And for all you birdwatchers out there, keep your eyes peeled—there were so many beautiful birds around. Plus, it's pretty cool to see the Ferguson Marine shipbuilding company nearby, a real piece of Scottish industry right next to ancient history.

Finally, the staff were back, we flashed our Historic Scotland memberships (always a win), and we were in.

Dundonald Castle: Your Ultimate Guide To Its History

Oh, for some unknown reason, I've been so incredibly lazy to write a post about Dundonald Castle, a Scottish castle we visited during the Easter period this year. But fear not, the time has finally come to share all the glorious details. So, come with me as I take you to a magnificent stronghold, which I had the pleasure of exploring with my wonderful friends Vika and her little one, Mona, alongside my Partner for an Easter bunny hunt.

Normally, there's a modest entry fee to explore the castle, but on that particular day, if you had a child registered for the Easter bunny search hunt, accompanying adults entered for free. What a brilliant bonus, allowing us to wander through the ancient walls without a penny spent. And let me tell you, the view from the castle is nothing short of spectacular. We spent ages simply soaking in the panoramic views, snapping countless photos, and truly relishing the serene atmosphere. Mona, of course, was absolutely delighted with her bunny hunt, and it truly made for a perfect day out. This memorable visit was actually part of a fantastic trio, as we also explored Seamill Beach and the enchanting Kelburn Castle & Estate on the very same day.

Unveiling Dundonald Castle: A Scottish Stronghold Steeped in History

Nestled atop a prominent hill in the charming village of Dundonald, Ayrshire, Dundonald Castle stands as a proud testament to Scotland's rich and often turbulent past. Its strategic location offers breathtaking 360-degree views across the Firth of Clyde, Arran, and the sprawling Ayrshire countryside – truly a photographer's dream and a history enthusiast's delight.

Where is this Historical Gem Located?

Dundonald Castle is easily accessible, situated just a short drive from Kilmarnock and Irvine, and within comfortable reach of Glasgow. Its postcode, KA2 9EY, will guide you right to its doorstep, making it a perfect day trip destination for both locals and tourists exploring the west coast of Scotland. The castle's elevated position not only provides incredible views but also hints at its historical significance as a defensive stronghold.

The Rich History of Dundonald Castle

The history of Dundonald Castle is as layered and intriguing as its ancient stone walls. The current castle is actually the third to occupy this commanding site.

• Early Beginnings: The earliest known structure on the site dates back to the Iron Age, a fort that predates any medieval castle. Following this, a timber-and-earth motte-and-bailey castle was constructed in the 12th century, likely by Walter FitzAlan, the first High Steward of Scotland, an ancestor of the Stewart royal line. This early castle would have played a crucial role in controlling the surrounding lands.

• The Stewart Stronghold: The most prominent and visible remains today belong to the formidable castle built by King Robert II, the first Stewart king of Scotland, in the late 14th century. After a period of destruction of the earlier structures during the Wars of Scottish Independence, Robert II, who had a strong connection to Ayrshire, chose Dundonald as a key residence. It was here that he spent considerable time, and it's even believed he died at the castle in 1390, making it a significant royal residence during the early Stewart dynasty. The castle's design, a large tower house with impressive defensive capabilities, reflects the architectural trends of the time.

• Later Ownership and Decline: Following the Stewarts, the castle passed through various hands, including the Wallaces of Dundonald and the Crawfurds of Loudoun. Over the centuries, its strategic importance waned, and like many Scottish castles, it eventually fell into disrepair. By the 17th century, much of the castle was in ruins, its stones sometimes repurposed for local buildings.

• Preservation and Present Day: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, efforts began to preserve what remained of Dundonald Castle. Today, it is a Scheduled Monument, cared for by Historic Environment Scotland, and managed by the dedicated team at the Friends of Dundonald Castle. Their commitment ensures that this vital piece of Scottish heritage remains accessible and understood by all.

Events and Experiences at Dundonald Castle

Beyond its historical significance, Dundonald Castle is a vibrant community hub. The Friends of Dundonald Castle actively host a diverse range of events throughout the year, making it a dynamic place to visit time and again. From historical re-enactments that bring the past to life with thrilling displays of medieval combat and daily life to engaging children's activities like the Easter bunny hunt we enjoyed, and even educational workshops and seasonal fairs – there's always something happening. These events truly enhance the visitor experience, offering unique opportunities to immerse oneself in the castle's atmosphere and learn more about its fascinating story. Be sure to check their official website or social media channels for their up-to-date events calendar.

P.S. This is my least favorite castle out of all the castles I've visited in Scotland so far.

Lab.it Pore Rice Cleanser Review: Hydrating, Clarifying & Gentle

I've been using the Lab.it Pore Rice Cleanser for some time now. When I received the product, I really wanted to give it an honest review, as I always do. So, here's my genuine opinion.

The product is not scented, which makes it suitable for anyone. But what really made this cleanser stand out for me is how my face feels after using it. Even if I don't apply cream immediately, my skin doesn't get uncomfortably dry. The texture is good too. I've heard of some Asian brands but hadn't tried them before, so maybe I was lucky enough to be sent this product, and it really suits my skin.

How I Use It

The instructions say to take an appropriate amount, lather well, gently massage the face, and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. However, I use it a bit differently: I apply the pore rice cleanser to my skin, spread and massage it, and then I often leave it on for a while if I'm doing other things, rinsing it off when I'm done. This particular cleanser is much better than liquid cleansers because it doesn't dry out your skin—at least, it doesn't for me.

I absolutely love this cleanser because it improves my skin clarity, brightens my under-eye area, leaves a rich, moisturizing feeling, and keeps my skin hydrated. It also helps tighten pores, giving me deep hydration and soft, beautiful skin. It's safe for daily use and vegan, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

Texture & Feel

The cleanser has a soft and bouncy texture. It's described as having a "mochi feeling," but since I haven't tried mochi before, I can't compare it directly. For me, it just feels incredibly fresh. Its elastic, creamy, dense, and cushiony texture gently adheres to the skin, effectively drawing out impurities and providing a satisfying, purifying pore cleanse, leaving skin refreshed. It's said to be the secret to baby-soft skin. The tannin green helps tighten pores and moisturize the skin, while rice peptides nourish for luminous, sebum-cleared, and smoother skin.

Unlock Your Potential: Pura Collagen Flex+ For Stronger Bones

Pura Collagen is making a name for itself in the world of advanced collagen. They're all about giving you targeted solutions for whatever your body needs. Their whole product line is built on understanding just how vital collagen is—it's like the main building block for your skin, bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Basically, all the good stuff that holds you together.

The science behind collagen is actually dead fascinating. It's this super complex protein, loads of amino acids all woven together to make a strong, triple-helix structure. This unique design gives your connective tissues incredible strength and flexibility. But here’s the thing: once you hit your mid-20s, your body's natural collagen production starts to drop off. That's when you begin to notice the signs of aging – skin getting less elastic, joints feeling a bit stiff, and bones not quite as dense. And it speeds up, with studies showing you lose about 1% of collagen every year after early adulthood, and it's a big drop for women after menopause.

My Birthday Adventure to Loch Leven Castle: Scotland's Historic Island Escape

For my birthday this year, I had a different  wish: a road trip to Loch Leven was at the top of my birthday list.  And you know what? My amazing partner made it happen. We hopped in the car, ready for an adventure, and headed for the Loch Leven that the RSPB protects. You know, because we're fancy  RSPB members  and all that.

But, typical, right? My partner was like, "Nah, babe, the map says it's closed." I had a feeling it was just their office, not the whole nature reserve, but bless his heart, he took me to the part covered by Historic Scotland instead. And Honestly? It was absolutely brilliant! The only catch was, since we had our RSPB membership, we had to pay to get in here. But let me tell you, it was SO worth it for the boat ride to the castle.

So, here's the deal: there's free parking, which is always a win, right? But then, to get to the iconic  Loch Leven Castle , you have to take a boat; it is an island. It cost us about £22, which included the ride over to the island where the castle sits. Before we even took off, our boat rider (who was super lovely, by the way) gave us the lowdown: "Stay seated, no phones over the water, don't stand up until we've stopped," and the kicker: "If your phone falls in, I'm not stopping—we can't find it anyway." I'll only stop if someone falls in." Talk about a clear message. There were four of us on the boat, and we just sat back, soaked in the absolutely stunning views of Loch Leven, and before we knew it, we were at Loch Leven Castle itself. The castle is definitely showing its age and bits are falling apart, but the sheer beauty of the location and getting to actually step inside? Priceless. 

Now, let's talk about the history of this incredible place, because Loch Leven Castle is absolutely steeped in it. This isn't just any old ruin; it's a place with some serious stories to tell. The castle itself dates back to the late 14th century, making it over 600 years old. Imagine all the history these stones have seen.

But the most famous resident, without a doubt, was  Mary, Queen of Scots.  She was imprisoned here in 1567, after being forced to abdicate her throne. Can you even imagine? Trapped on an island in the middle of a loch. She was held here for nearly a year, and let me tell you, she did not go quietly. She tried to escape not once, but twice.  Her first attempt involved switching clothes with a laundress, but she was recognized by a boatman and her escape was foiled. Her second, more successful attempt, in May 1568, was much more dramatic. With the help of George Douglas (the castle owner's younger brother, who was totally friendly with her) and a young orphan named Willie Douglas, she managed to get hold of the castle keys. Willie locked the gates behind them, threw the keys into the loch (talk about commitment), and they rowed across to the shore where Lord Seton was waiting with horses. She was free. For a little while, anyway. It's such a thrilling part of Scottish history, and standing in the very castle where it happened feels good.     

A quick note for you fellow foodies. There  is a restaurant at Loch Leven, but at the moment, it's unfortunately closed. I'm hoping it'll reopen soon, because imagine grabbing a bite with those views. 

How to Get to Loch Leven from Glasgow or Edinburgh:

Getting to Loch Leven is super straightforward from both Glasgow and Edinburgh , making it a perfect day trip!

• From Glasgow: It's roughly an hour to an hour and a half drive. You'll want to head east on the M8 towards Edinburgh, then pick up the M90 ​​north towards Perth. Take junction 5 (A911) for Kinross/Milnathort, and then follow the signs for Loch Leven. 
• From Edinburgh: Even easier. It's about a 45-minute to an hour drive. Just jump on the M90 ​​north towards Perth and take junction 5 (A911) for Kinross/Milnathort, and then follow the signs to Loch Leven.

Public transport is a bit trickier, as you'd likely need a combination of trains and buses, so I'd definitely recommend driving if you can for the most flexibility.

So, there you have it. My birthday wish came true, even with a little detour, and I got to explore a truly historic part of Scotland. If you're looking for a dose of history, stunning scenery, and a unique boat trip, Loch Leven Castle is an absolute must-visit. Just don't drop your phone in the loch.

Address :  Pier Rd, Kinross KY13 8UF

In case of emergency, an emergency line and defibrillator are available on the island. Should you get stuck, miss your pickup, or if no one arrives to collect you, please use the emergency line.

Did I mention that we ended up signing up for Historic Scotland membership? Yes, we did. 

Time Anxiety: Overcome Overwhelm & Reclaim Your Life

When I started reading Chris Guillebeau's book on time anxiety, a powerful realization hit me: I was completely guilty of it. With each page, it felt as though the writer was speaking directly to my soul.

For years, I avoided celebrating my birthday.  I'd ask myself, "What have I even achieved?" Is it truly worth celebrating?" I'd go silent, and if someone wished me a happy birthday, I'd feel nervous and anxious all day. Most of my friends didn't even know when my birthday was, and while those who did always wished me well, they never understood the deep questions it triggered within me.

I come from a family where everything I needed was provided. My dad was one of the best graduating students of his time, with many awards. Whenever I looked at him, I exuded such confidence ; he knew his field inside out, understood himself, and could speak eloquently about his journey. He has a loving family, of which I am a part. My dad always encouraged us but never pushed us beyond our limits. Yet, time anxiety never lets me truly enjoy the process of life.

I started working really early, driven by my own desire. My dad initially didn't approve, but he quietly watched me teach students math and English. Right after secondary school, I began teaching at a primary school. There was one girl who struggled with speaking, and her aunt wanted me to tutor her so she could attend school, as English was the language of instruction. I felt confident I could teach her, and you know what? She learned English and today she speaks it well. But I noticed that with every achievement, I immediately asked myself, "What next?" This constant focus on the future prevented me from enjoying the present process.

I graduated with a degree in General Medicine, but while I was studying, I also worked as a model and blogger, sold shoes, and collaborated with agencies to help international students travel. I wasn't lacking anything; my dad made sure I had all I needed. But I never rested. Some might say I was just hardworking, not letting my comfortable family background make me complacent. But knowing what I know now, I wouldn't have done it without truly enjoying the process. I was so fixed on the result that I missed out on the journey. I always had something to do, always a goal; there was no time to relax. I can't recall a single time in Ukraine when I went out to simply chill without feeling guilty that I could be doing something more "productive" than resting. It took me a long time to understand that resting is a crucial part of the process.  So I kept racing.

Happy Birthday to Me: Yellow Flare Dress.

This birthday morning, I woke up with a bit of a tummy upset, probably from enjoying too many groundnuts yesterday. But after that first little episode, I felt much better and immediately started dancing and thanking God for this amazing journey of life. I prayed and sang praises. God has been so incredibly faithful to me, I can't even begin to tell you all. I am living proof that God is good and that He loves us. My heart is overflowing with joy! Some people are spending their birthdays in hospital beds, others are surrounded by loved ones but can't even speak, some aren't even aware of what's happening around them. But here I am! I don't take this for granted for a single moment. My heart is filled with so much joy. I know heaven has blessed this earth with me, and I know heaven is rejoicing with me today. I know God is smiling because His daughter is here, serving Him. I thank God for my life. I come from a family that is stable and deeply rooted in God's word. God placed me in that family, and I believe it's one of the greatest gifts He's given me. I am so thankful. God is truly wonderful, and He has given me so much that I can't even begin to express it all. Please join me in thanking God for the gift of life—a life of productivity, a life filled with love and heavenly protection. No evil can touch me.

Dancing to music, I dressed up, completely overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. It's truly God's grace that has sustained me. My partner couldn't contain his joy either. He started dancing and put on a new shirt and jeans to celebrate my birthday. We headed out to get Greggs, but we also brought along my birthday rice that he made last night. After that, we went for a trip to Loch Leven, and I spent my birthday surrounded by nature. If you've seen my birthday wishlist, you'll know that I also wanted to get my hair done in a particular style, and I did. I'll be sharing more about Loch Leven soon, but for now, enjoy these photos. And if you noticed my heels, my partner also bought them for me as part of my birthday gift, and I wore them with my favorite yellow dress from Shein. I just want to thank God for a beautiful birthday that went so smoothly. I'm so glad I received wishes from my family. My parents are especially happy, and I'm just filled with joy. It's amazing how much joy I feel today. Honestly, God is indeed faithful. Happy birthday to me and to everyone born today. God bless you all.

Unlock Your Best Self: Holland & Barrett's Hydration Boosters

Alright, my lovely readers, gather 'round. Today, we're diving deep into a topic that, honestly, I don't think gets half the attention it deserves: hydration. Seriously, it’s the unsung hero of our well-being, the quiet powerhouse working behind the scenes that most of us are totally missing out on. And guess what? I've been incredibly lucky because the fantastic folks at Holland & Barrett sent over a treasure trove of hydration goodies, and I couldn't be more excited to share my thoughts with you.

Now, before we jump into these brilliant products, let's have a frank chat about why hydration isn't just about quenching your thirst. It’s about everything. Imagine your body as a magnificent, intricate city. Water is the lifeblood, the infrastructure, the very air that keeps everything functioning. Every single organ, every single cell, every tiny process relies on adequate hydration.

Think about it:

• Your Brain: Needs water to produce hormones and neurotransmitters. Dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, poor concentration, and mood swings. Ever felt foggy-brained? Hydration could be your answer.
• Your Heart and Blood: Water helps your heart pump blood more easily through your vessels to your muscles, reducing the strain on your cardiovascular system. It literally keeps your blood flowing smoothly.
• Your Kidneys: These incredible filters need water to remove waste products from your blood and excrete them in your urine. Not enough water? Your kidneys struggle, and toxins can build up.
• Your Digestive System: Water helps break down food, absorb nutrients, and keeps things moving along, preventing constipation. A happy gut often starts with proper hydration.
• Your Skin: Our largest organ. Hydration keeps your skin elastic, plump, and healthy, giving you that natural glow. Dehydration can lead to dryness, dullness, and more prominent fine lines.
• Your Muscles and Joints: Water lubricates your joints, helping them move smoothly, and it plays a vital role in muscle function, preventing cramps and fatigue during exercise.

It's astounding, isn't it? When we’re properly hydrated, our energy levels are better, our moods are more stable, our immune system is stronger, and our body’s natural detox processes work more efficiently. It's the ultimate balancing act for our entire health, and yet, so many of us walk around chronically under-hydrated, sipping on coffee or sugary drinks, completely missing the simple, powerful solution that water and electrolytes offer.

This is where these brilliant products from Holland & Barrett step in. They’re not just about chugging water; they’re about optimising that hydration, replenishing vital electrolytes, and giving your body exactly what it needs to thrive.

Tyler Perry's 'Straw': Black Lives & Systemic Bias

You already know I’m all about speaking my truth, especially when it comes to issues that hit home and highlight the systemic struggles that Black communities face. Right now, there’s a film making serious waves, and it's not just a movie – it's a mirror reflecting the harsh realities many of us navigate daily. I'm talking about Tyler Perry's 'Straw', and trust me, it’s a must-watch because it cuts deep.

This film, starring the incredible Taraji P. Henson as Janiyah, is a raw, heart-wrenching portrayal of a single Black mother pushed to her absolute breaking point. It's a storyline that perfectly illustrates what I've been saying for ages: when it comes to Black people, it’s often "conclusion without investigation." The system, particularly law enforcement, seems to default to overreaction, causing issues and escalating situations that, frankly, don't need to be.

Let me break down Janiyah’s nightmare of a day, because it’s a masterclass in how society fails Black women, especially mothers.

Unlock Insane Traffic: 5 Secrets to Explode Your Article Views (Like, Tomorrow!)

You know that feeling when you pour your heart and soul into an article, a blog post, or any piece of online content, and then… crickets? Or maybe you get some views, but you know deep down you could be getting way more? Yeah, I've been there. We all have. Whether you're sharing lifestyle tips, travel adventures, personal stories, selling awesome products, or dazzling the world with your wildlife photography, you want people to see it, right? You want that sweet, sweet traffic.

For some, the views trickle in, just average. For others, it’s a full-on flood! And guess what? You can be in the flood club. I'm about to spill the tea on four game-changing things you can start doing today to supercharge your article traffic. You might be wondering, "How does she know?" Well, my years in the blogging trenches have been one big experiment. I've tried everything, self-taught myself a ton, and picked up incredible tips from countless hours diving into what makes content pop.

Seriously, do yourself a HUGE favor and bookmark this post right now. I'm not kidding. If you put these strategies into action, I'm confident you'll start seeing a noticeable surge in your views within weeks, if not days! Remember when I talked about commenting habits destroying your website's reputation? This is in that same league of "must-know" info. To really make the most of this traffic-boosting mission, I highly recommend you also check out these other articles of mine. They'll help you tie everything together:

• One Commenting Habit Destroying Your Website's Reputation
• One Blogging Mistake That Is Reducing Your Traffic (And How to Fix It Now)
• Why Bloggers Don't Get the Best from Articles Shared to Improve Their Blog
• When Writing Articles or Posts, Here are 6 Points to Help You Gain Traffic
• Bloggers Struggling with Poor Traffic, This is How to Generate Traffic

Alright, are you ready to dive in? Let's get this traffic party started!

The Little Big Things: My Birthday List

Putting this list together with so much love and happiness, because for me, it's always the little big things that matter most. I've decided to create a birthday list this year, and topping it off is:

Answered prayers: Topping my list are answered prayers. Time to celebrate answered prayers. I have a list of requests I've brought to God, and I know without a doubt He's responded. Please join me in praising Him for His faithfulness.

Nature Reserves: Visiting some Nature Reserves. I'd absolutely love to visit at least two (or even three!). I'm working on a birthday itinerary, and the ones I'm planning to see are Loch Leven, Inversnaid Nature Reserve, and Black Devon Wetlands. My RSPB membership will make it super easy, too. I might even spend my birthday in a nature reserve – not sure yet.

Roxy 60's Style Retro Five In One Record Player System: I am totally eyeing this Roxy 5-in-1 Music System! I've always wanted a record player; I just love them, hahahahha, don't ask me why – I don't know, but I do. I love that it perfectly blends retro 60s style with modern tech like Bluetooth, plus I can finally play all my old vinyl and CDs. The ability to convert records to MP3s is a huge bonus too! This one is by Not On The High St.